Bush's Action Delays for at Least 60 Days
Any Strike by United Airlines Mechanics

By

Stephen Power Staff Reporter of The Wall Street Journal

Updated Dec. 21, 2001 12:01 a.m. ET

WASHINGTON -- President Bush blocked an expected strike by United Airlines mechanics, a move the White House said was needed to prevent holiday flight disruptions but labor leaders called an assault on worker-bargaining rights.

Mr. Bush's decision to appoint a presidential emergency board -- consistent with an earlier pledge to "take the necessary steps to prevent airline strikes" -- means mechanics at the No. 2 carrier will have to stay on the job for at least another 60 days. It is the second time Mr. Bush has...